Dilated cardiomyopathy in a dog with hypothyroidism and megaesophagus

Abstract

Dilated cardiomyopathy is characterized by a deficiency in ventricular contraction and it is known that several conditions can occur with low myocardial contractility and consequent dilation of the heart chambers. Hypothyroidism is an endocrinopathy that may be related to decreased muscle contractility, such as myocardial and esophageal muscles. The objective of this work was to report the case of a dog with hypothyroidism, megaesophagus and dilated cardiomyopathy. A canine patient, male, Fila Brasileiro, 8 years old and body condition score (ECC) 2 (1-9), presented with the main complaint of dyspnea, regurgitation, weakness, edema of the limbs, progressive weight loss, and hypotrichosis and Symmetrical bilateral alopecia on trunk and tail. Upon physical examination, a godet impression, pulmonary crepitation, grade IV systolic murmur (I-VI) and 8% dehydration were observed. Complementary tests such as chest X-ray, Doppler echocardiogram and serum free T4 by dialysis and TSH were performed, confirming the presence of dilated cardiomyopathy in congestive heart failure, megaesophagus and hypothyroidism. Palliative therapy was instituted to stabilize the patient, and specific oral treatment was initiated for the conditions with Pimobendan, Benazepril, Furosemide, Spironolactone, Levothyroxine sodium, administered in a bipedal position, in addition to food management with soft food, also in a bipedal position for 20 minutes. After one month of treatment, the patient showed clinical improvement, weight gain (ECC 3) and hair growth, but the tutor declined to perform hormonal follow-up tests, maintaining the initially prescribed doses. Early diagnosis, institution of appropriate treatment and monitoring of the patient in view of the instituted therapy are extremely important for stabilizing the patient and maintaining the body's homeostasis, increasing the quality and life expectancy of patients.